Rwanda in January

Rwanda in January; weather and where to go

January is part of the first dry period running from mid-December and continuing throughout the whole of January, and into February, and a great time for gorilla trekking. The climate in Rwanda is very similar all year round however it may differ depending upon which area you are staying in. During the two dry seasons there is often light clouds across the country which offers refreshingly, light rainfall as well as being able to moderate the temperature. You can expect fairly dry terrain, but being in the Virunga’s, weather can be a little unpredictable, and rain can come at any time.

This is a fantastic time to go gorilla trekking as the hiking conditions are the easiest and the risk of malaria is at its lowest.

January climatic averages

Average maximum temperature 26 degrees centigrade

Average minimum temperature 15 degrees centigrade

Average amount of rainfall 75 millimetres

If you plan to combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking, then January is not the best time. Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe is actually better in the wetter seasons (mid-February to June, and mid-September to mid-December). This is due to them being easier to locate as the fruits of the forests ripen, so they tend to munch away closer to the forest floor in larger groups.

You can combine Rwanda with most Africa beach destinations in January, from Zanzibar, to the coast of Kenya. So if you are looking for a wildlife and beach combination, it can be a great month to travel.